What is the definition of a wave?

The definition of a wave is best captured by describing it as a disturbance that transfers energy through space or a medium without transferring matter. This statement encompasses the fundamental nature of all waves, whether they are mechanical waves, such as sound or water waves, or electromagnetic waves, such as light. Waves propagate through various media by causing particles to oscillate around an equilibrium position, effectively passing energy from one place to another while the particles themselves do not travel with the wave. This principle is a core concept in the study of wave mechanics and underlines the behavior of different types of waves.

The other definitions provided in the choices focus too narrowly on specific types of waves or do not encapsulate the broad definition applicable to all wave phenomena. For example, specifying a wave as being a visible motion in water limits the definition to water waves alone, ignoring other wave types. Similarly, defining a wave strictly as a form of light traveling through a vacuum or as sound produced by vibrating objects also confines the concept and ignores the broader application of wave theory. Hence, defining a wave as a disturbance that transfers energy is the most comprehensive and accurate understanding.